You're not alone if you’ve been feeling the pinch in your wallet lately. Urban life is getting pricier everywhere, and a recent global ranking from Henley & Partners, a consultancy known for tracking wealth and migration, confirms what many already suspect: some cities are jaw-droppingly expensive to call home.

Each year, this firm analyzes the data to reveal which urban hotspots are the most expensive. It specifically examines the price per square metre for luxury apartments between 100 and 200 square metres. The results? There are no huge surprises, but there are some serious price tags.

Monaco: Still the Unchallenged Leader in Luxury

Claiming the number one spot once again is Monaco. In this opulent playground for the ultra-rich, you can expect to pay over $38,800 per square metre for a high-end apartment. That’s more than just expensive—it’s astronomical.

This tiny principality also ranks first in wealth concentration, with 40% of its residents boasting millionaire status. That’s the highest density of millionaires anywhere on Earth. So, while the real estate prices might be shocking, they align with the kind of clientele the city attracts.

New York: Big City, Bigger Price Tag

Right behind Monaco is New York City, where upscale real estate isn’t far behind in cost. Prime property in the Big Apple averages $27,500 per square metre. Besides its sky-high real estate prices, New York also wears the crown as the wealthiest city on the planet, with around 384,500 millionaires calling it home.

Hong Kong, London, and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat Complete the Top Five

The next three on the list—Hong Kong, London, and the glamorous French Riviera town of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat—are also known for their elite real estate scenes. Whether it's the limited land in Hong Kong, London's global status, or the French Riviera's picturesque coastline, these cities offer exclusive living for a very steep price.

France Takes the Crown for the Most Entries

Photo: unsplash.com/@amiraaartistry

Here’s a fascinating twist: France has the most locations featured in the top 20, more than any other country. Aside from Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, other luxe destinations like Paris, Nice, Cannes, Antibes, and Èze make the list. The French Riviera isn’t just beautiful—it’s big business.

Top 10 Most Expensive Cities to Buy a Prime Apartment in 2025

1. Monaco
2. New York
3. Hong Kong
4. London
5. Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
6. Paris
7. Sydney
8. Palm Beach
9. Miami Beach
10. Los Angeles

So, if you’ve ever dreamed of owning a home in one of these cities, you might want to check your bank account twice or thrice. These destinations might be a dream for many, but they come with a millionaire’s price tag.